title: The strategies of Japanese public health nurses in medication support for high-risk tuberculosis patients.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The purpose of this study was to describe the support provided by Japanese public health nurses (PHNs) to high-risk tuberculosis (TB) patients, focusing specifically on the support aimed at preventing interruptions in treatment.
  
  
  METHODS
  A qualitative descriptive approach was used with a convenience sample of 11 PHNs in Japan who cared for TB patients at highest risk for medication adherence problems.
  
  
  METHODS
  Semi-structured interviews were conducted to learn the scope and practice of PHNs with high-risk TB patients. Data were analyzed using a qualitative descriptive analysis process.
  
  
  RESULTS
  One main theme was identified: "Supporting the patients in overcoming tuberculosis, regaining health, and living a healthier life." Three categories with five subcategories described the nurses' activities: (1) empathetic and reliable support, (2) motivational strategies for medication adherence, and (3) developing a foundation for healthier life.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The nurses interviewed described creative and extraordinary strategies used to promote medication adherence and facilitate development of a healthy posttreatment lifestyle. Their approach was patient-centered and culturally congruent. Findings may be transferrable to PHN practice in other regions as care for this economically disadvantaged and marginalized population is a critical need.
authors.affiliation: Department of Community Health Nursing, Division of Health Sciences & Nursing, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan. tshimamura-tky@umin.ac.jp
authors.forename: Tamae
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Shimamura
authors.forename: Atsuko
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Taguchi
authors.forename: Sayuri
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Kobayashi
authors.forename: Satoko
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Nagata
authors.forename: Joan Kathy
authors.initials: JK
authors.lastname: Magilvy
authors.forename: Sachiyo
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Murashima
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004645:Empathy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007564:Japan; D008297:Male; D055118:Medication Adherence / Q000523:psychology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009042:Motivation; D009723:Nurse-Patient Relations; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D011637:Public Health Nursing / Q000379:methods*; D036301:Qualitative Research; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012944:Social Support; D014376:Tuberculosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000451:nursing*
keywords: nurse-patient relationship; posttreatment life; public health nursing practice; qualitative descriptive study; tuberculosis